One
of the things that brings joy to my life is reading. Ok, ok, ok, that is a huge understatement.
Reading hasn’t just brought joy to my life, it has brought healing, respite, knowledge,
and at times full out escapism.
What do I like to read? Well, I used
to think I had very specific tastes and I only read self-help books and
historical romance novels. As time moved on, I discovered classic literature,
mysteries, thrillers and spy novels, paranormal, and most recently urban
fantasy.
The last six months I have been
working for a small publishing company as a Preliminary Manuscript Reviewer. The publisher’s niche is in historical
and nautical fiction. Although I love history, there are a few time periods
that I don’t find interesting and tend to avoid. Also, reading a book about
adventures on the high seas never registered on my “books to read” raider.
The position requires me to read
query letters, synopses, and the first two and last chapters of manuscripts and
write reviews based on my first impressions. I did so with the intention of
being objective and focusing on plot, characters, setting, etc. I didn’t want
the “boring” subject matter to bias my opinion of the quality of writing. The
process has been enlightening to say the least. I have been exposed to some
awful writing and to some great writing and have learned a lot about what makes
a good read. However, the most important thing I have learned is…
If the writing is good, than any genre, subject,
or topic can be interesting, compelling and will always make an incredible
novel.
So regardless of what you like to
read and have read for years, consider trying something new. You might be
surprised by what you find. How do I get started looking for something new, you
ask? Here are a few tips: Ask friends for recommendations for their favorite
books or authors; check out the website Goodreads, they list the top reads for
different genres; find out what your favorite authors are reading (sometimes
they enjoy reading outside their own genre); and check out the classics (you
know what they are). Personally, I belong to a book club and that forces me to
read something I would have never chosen on my own.
Any subject can be made into a great book
through good writing.
Whether you are an avid reader or
only get to read a book every once in a great while, you know that reading can
enhance our lives in ways like nothing else can. Using recommendations and
reviews, dipping into and exploring new genres can be easy and the benefits can
make it more meaningful.
Thanks for stopping by Meaningful
Living Now and allowing me to
share my ideas, thoughts, and musings with you. Please feel free to leave
a comment or question.
In love and light,
Christine
